Germany will maintain sanctions against Russia despite the easing of US restrictions on Russian fuel.

Germany will maintain existing sanctions against Russia due to its war against Ukraine, despite the decision by the United States to ease American restrictions on Russian fuel. This was stated by the spokesperson for the German government, Stefan Kornelius, on October 10, according to Reuters.

According to him, Berlin has been informed of Washington's decision regarding the supply of Russian diesel fuel, but the position of the federal government remains unchanged: it continues to adhere to the adopted sanctions against Russia and is working with European partners on further sanctions measures. Cornelius also emphasized that Germany's support for Ukraine has not changed, and diplomatic efforts to find ways to end the war will continue.

October 9 US President Donald Trump stated that he had reached an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the supply of Russian diesel fuel to global markets — he said, this involves nearly 5 million tons to the US and other countries, which is expected to help lower fuel prices. Following this, the US administration temporarily eased sanctions on Russian fuel; the restrictions were previously imposed to reduce Moscow's income, which it uses to finance the war against Ukraine.

Reuters reports that the prices of diesel fuel, which is used in agriculture, for heating, and freight transport, have risen to almost record levels. This creates political risks for Republicans ahead of the upcoming midterm elections to the US Congress, scheduled for November 3. Earlier, Senator Blumenthal had warned American companies against buying Russian diesel, and Australia stated that it would not buy Russian fuel after the Trump deal.